Suso: Gerrard is my role model

Liverpool's Spanish star Suso has singled-out Steven Gerrard as his footballing inspiration - and hailed the skipper as one of the best players in the world.

The Reds' No.30 has clocked up 11 appearances for the Reds since making his debut against Young Boys in September and his creativity and ability has allowed him to slot effortlessly into Brendan Rodgers' three-pronged attack.

Gerrard has been a near constant in the side during those fixtures and Suso revealed how he has been inspired by the way the 32-year-old remains dedicated to improving every day at Melwood, despite having already achieved so much in the game.

Asked by youngsters gathered at the launch of the Liverpool FC Foundation Football College to name his footballing role model, Suso replied: "I would say Gerrard. I think he is one of the best players in the world.

"He has been playing in the Liverpool first team since he was as young as 18 years old and he is still playing.

"I see him every morning in training and he always wants to improve, even though he is the best player already and he has won so much at this club.

"So I think this is why he is one of the best examples for young players."

Dani Pacheco was also on hand to help launch the new college and he was keen to echo his countryman's sentiments and praise for the Reds skipper. He said: "I can't say any different [to Suso] - at this club, Stevie is the model for everyone.

"He has come through the Academy and has achieved plenty. But he is trying to achieve even more. And that is amazing.

"When you see a player at that level, who still wants to improve more and more, you think to yourself, 'I have to fight everyday to get near to that level' and I know I have to fight to play for this club."